Ultimate Guide to Photo Paper: 4 Main Types | How to Choose | 8 Best Recommendations

Digital photography is taking over the world but photo paper prints have still remained a perfect way to showcase frozen moments. You might have an idea of what kind of photo paper is well suited for your photographs, but we can't ignore the fact that it takes time to find the best manufacturer. This article will comb you on what you need to know about types of photo papers, which ones are well suited for your needs and the most preferred brands in each classification.

5 Types of Photo Paper

1. Glossy Papers

Photo by foxie on shutterstock

Glossy papers are smooth and reflect sunlight. They are a great choice if you're looking for a photo paper that can be viewed from a distance. They however aren’t the best choice in places where there is direct sunlight because of its reflection. Glossy papers minimize color casts and that makes it good for a neutral picture.

2. Metallic Papers

Photo by FUN FUN PHOTO on shutterstock

Metallic photo paper makes your photo have a very solid feel. It is incorporated with metallic layer to make it look 3D on your photos. Altogether, it will be relevant to note that the metallic photo paper is relatively more durable than the standard photo papers in terms of fading and damages.

As we have seen above, this is a good paper to use if one wants texture to the photography.

3. Luster Papers

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Luster papers are mainly applied in poster production, magazines, or any other material that needs a shiny surface. It gives the photos a shiny looking which makes the appearance of the photos to be even more appealing. 

As for other practical qualities, Luster papers do not attract fingerprints and dust. The longevity can be also over the majority of papers. If you are looking to find a paper where visual appearance is important, this is the best choice.

4. Matte Papers

Photo by Valentina Perfilyeva on shutterstock

Matte photo paper has a smooth surface that diffuses light and reduces reflection. Its texturised feel makes it less prone to fingerprints. You can use this paper for photos that will be viewed in bright light. This might be a disadvantage if you are seeking to find a brighter contrast. Matte photo papers have a longer lifespan because they are weatherproof.

5. Satin Papers

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Satin photo paper has a combination of both glossy and matte finish.It is not so shiny nor is it too flat.Generally, the satin photo paper maintains good detail and makes the photos have good depth.Unlike the glossy photo papers, the photos on a satin photo paper can be viewed in various light conditions comfortably.

Luster vs. Glossy

The other major difference between luster papers and other glossy papers is on the finish. Luster paper has a subtle glamorous semi-gloss surface while the glossy papers have a bright surface having high-gloss. The finish also differs from a luster paper being shinier and having a smoother surface than the slightly dull texture.

As far as the strengths are concerned, luster paper is less prone to fingerprint smudging as compared to the glossy paper. They also make photos much sharper and allegedly distinct than a glossy photo paper.

Glossy vs. Matte

The main distinction of glossy and matte photo papers is in the sheen. Shiny photo papers are mostly thick, smooth and have a reflective surface while the non-shiny photo papers have a reduced reflection surface.

Photo by P.S_2 on shutterstock

Therefore, when selecting the particular photo paper, there may be a number of aspects to take into consideration which include the anticipated/hear by now use of the photo.

How to Choose Photo Printer Paper?

Before you choose a photo paper for your next print, there are a few important points that you should know.

1. Surface of Paper

Your choice of the surface paper greatly affects the final appearance of your image. That includes the quality of your printed image, the saturation of colors, reflection of the light and the desired texture. A good selection will ensure that your images attain their desired visual impact.

2. Weight of Paper

Photo by Daniel Krason on shutterstock

This is because the weight of the paper bring out the desirable genres when it comes to printing of the photos. Certainly, thin paper may produce a thin final product.Heavier-weight papers tend to give a more professional and high-quality appearance.

3. Compatibility with Printer

One thing that needs to be checked in a printer is compatibility of the papers used with the printer. It is also possible to prognosticate the paper types and sizes that come with your printer, so that you can carry out certain research.Some printer manuals have a recommendation of the paper to use.Using incompatible paper can result in poor printing quality or even damage to your printer.

4. Special Features

Reading a product description helps you note the highlighted special features. Examples are the surface finish, the weight of the paper and compatibility with certain specific printer models. Consider what you plan to do with your printed photos and choose a paper that suits those needs.

5. Budget

It is important to do an extensive research of the papers you can get on your budget. That will help you to find the best suited for your printing while getting great results. You may want to do some test prints on different papers to see which one you prefer before committing to a larger purchase.

6. Brightness and Opacity

Photo by DigitalHand Studio on shutterstock

Opacity refers to how well a paper prevents the ink from showing through on the other side – choose a paper with high opacity for double-sided printing without bleed-through.

7. Dmax Value

Dmax value is a measure of the maximum density of black ink a paper can hold. A higher Dmax value gives your photograph a detailed darker tone. This additional feature can make a photo paper a little more expensive.

8. Durability

A photo paper may not last the same way as another photo paper due to the difference in its quality and frequently the type of printer it was used on. Think about the time span you wish the photo to be dominant before purchasing one. While other papers will relegated to the oblivion with time. You should also be keen to note the papers that have some other special attributes that can extend the life of your pictures.

Best Photo Paper for Printer

1. Canon Photo Paper Pro Platinum PT-101

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Specification

• Texture: Glossy
• Surface Coating: Resin
• Print Side: Single
• Longevity: 200+ years
• Sheet size: 4 x 6 inches
• Thickness: 0.3 mm
• Mass: 250 g

Pros

• Produces clear and quality prints.
• Available in various  sizes.
• Gives great color prints.

Cons

• It is a little costly.
• It is thick and may end up jamming some printers.

2. HP Everyday Photo Paper

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Specification

• Texture: Glossy
• Surface Coating: Resin
• Print Side: Single
• Sheet size: 4 x 6 inches
• Thickness: 0.2 mm
• Mass: 200 grams

Pros

• It is more affordable
• The papers can be recyclable
• Prints dry quickly
• Results printed are colorful
• Can be used by any printer.

Cons

• Very thin and might tear easily.

3. Epson Ultra Premium Presentation Paper Matte

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Specification

• Texture: Matte
• Print Side: Single
• Sheet size: 5 x 7 inches
• Mass: 192 grams

Pros

• Very detailed output 
• water resistant
• Dries quickly after printing

Cons

• Hard to notice the treated side

4. Canson Infinity Rag Photographique Matte 310 gsm

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Specification

• Texture: Matte
• Print Side: Single
• Sheet size: 8.5 x 11 grams
• Thickness: 0.47 mm
• Mass: 310 grams

Pros

• It is moisture resistant
• Dries instantly after printing
• It is durable.
• Great for black and white images

Cons

• It is costly.

5. Hahnemühle German Etching Paper

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Specification

• Texture: Matte
• Brightness: 92%
• Surface Coating: Cellulose
• Opacity: 99%
• Print Side: Single
• Sheet size: 8.5 x 11"
• Mass: 310 grams

Pros

• Produces images with great depth
• It can be used with watercolors
• It is non-acidic
• It is waterproof

Cons

• Doesn't always produce the best quality prints.

6. Hahnemühle Photo Rag Baryta

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Specification

• Texture: Glossy
• Whiteness: 91%
• Surface material: Cotton Rag
• Opacity: 97%
• Print Side: Single
• Sheet size: 5.8x8.3 inches
• Thickness: 0.39 mm
• Mass: 315 grams

Pros

• It is compatible with dye based ink
• It is of great quality
• It is non-acidic
• Allows for 3d depth

Cons

• It is expensive

7. Canson Infinity Platine Fibre Rag

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Specification

• Texture: Luster
• Surface Material: Cotton Rag
• Whiteness: 89%
• Print Side: Single
• Sheet size: 17 x 22
• Thickness: 0.4 mm
• Weight: 310 grams

Pros

• It is great for black and white photography
• It is resistant to aging.

Cons

• Colored images may not turn out great.

8. Amazon Basics Photo Paper

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Specification

• Surface Finish: Glossy
• Print Side: Single
• Sheet size: 8.5 x 11
• Weight: 250 grams

Pros

• The cost is affordable.
• The material is durable.
• The paper's surface is mark-resistant.

Cons

• Only inkjet printers can use it.

Conclusion

The specifications of different papers makes them suitable for different types of printing. It is important to know what outcome you are looking for. That knowledge will be important to select the most suitable paper for your printing. Knowing both advantages and disadvantages also help you to nullify the papers that you are unsure of. Good quality paper will last longer and save you money.